Yamaha MT-03 - Owner's Manual > Motorcycle care and storage

Care

While the open design of a motorcycle reveals the attractiveness of the technology, it also makes it more vulnerable.

Rust and corrosion can develop even if high-quality components are used. A rusty exhaust pipe may go unnoticed on a car, however, it detracts from the overall appearance of a motorcycle.

Frequent and proper care does not only comply with the terms of the warranty, but it will also keep your motorcycle looking good, extend its life and optimize its performance.

Before cleaning

1. Cover the muffler outlet with a plastic bag after the engine has cooled down.

2. Make sure that all caps and covers as well as all electrical couplers and connectors, including the spark plug cap, are tightly installed.

3. Remove extremely stubborn dirt, like oil burnt onto the crankcase, with a degreasing agent and a brush, but never apply such products onto seals, gaskets, sprockets, the drive chain and wheel axles. Always rinse the dirt and degreaser off with water.

Cleaning

CAUTION:

• Avoid using strong acidic wheel cleaners, especially on spoked wheels. If such products are used on hard-to-remove dirt, do not leave the cleaner on the affected area any longer than instructed. Also, thoroughly rinse the area off with water, immediately dry it, and then apply a corrosion protection spray.
• Improper cleaning can damage windshields, cowlings, panels and other plastic parts. Use only a soft, clean cloth or sponge with mild detergent and water to clean plastic.
• Do not use any harsh chemical products on plastic parts. Be sure to avoid using cloths or sponges which have been in contact with strong or abrasive cleaning products, solvent or thinner, fuel (gasoline), rust removers or inhibitors, brake fluid, antifreeze or electrolyte.
• Do not use high-pressure washers or steam-jet cleaners since they cause water see page and deterioration in the following areas: seals (of wheel and swingarm bearings, fork and brakes), electric components (couplers, connectors, instruments, switches and lights), breather hoses and vents.
• For motorcycles equipped with a windshield: Do not use strong cleaners or hard sponges as they will cause dulling or scratching. Some cleaning compounds for plastic may leave scratches on the windshield.
  Test the product on a small hidden part of the windshield to make sure that it does not leave any marks. If the windshield is scratched, use a quality plastic polishing compound after washing.

After normal use

Remove dirt with warm water, a mild detergent, and a soft, clean sponge, and then rinse thoroughly with clean water. Use a toothbrush or bottlebrush for hard-to-reach areas. Stubborn dirt and insects will come off more easily if the area is covered with a wet cloth for a few minutes before cleaning.

After riding in the rain, near the sea or on salt-sprayed roads

Since sea salt or salt sprayed on roads during winter are extremely corrosive in combination with water, carry out the following steps after each ride in the rain, near the sea or on salt-sprayed roads.

NOTE: Salt sprayed on roads in the winter may remain well into spring.

1. Clean the motorcycle with cold water and a mild detergent, after the engine has cooled down.

CAUTION: Do not use warm water since it increases the corrosive action of the salt.

2. Apply a corrosion protection spray on all metal, including chrome- and nickel-plated, surfaces to prevent corrosion.

After cleaning

1. Dry the motorcycle with a chamois or an absorbing cloth.

2. Immediately dry the drive chain and lubricate it to prevent it from rusting.

3. Use a chrome polish to shine chrome, aluminum and stainless-steel parts, including the exhaust system. (Even the thermally induced discoloring of stainless-steel exhaust systems can be removed through polishing.)

4. To prevent corrosion, it is recommended to apply a corrosion protection spray on all metal, including chrome- and nickel-plated, surfaces.

5. Use spray oil as a universal cleaner to remove any remaining dirt.

6. Touch up minor paint damage caused by stones, etc.

7. Wax all painted surfaces.

8. Let the motorcycle dry completely before storing or covering it.

WARNING

• Make sure that there is no oil or wax on the brakes or tires. If necessary, clean the brake discs and brake linings with a regular brake disc cleaner or acetone, and wash the tires with warm water and a mild detergent.
• Before operating the motorcycle test its braking performance and cornering behavior.

CAUTION:

• Apply spray oil and wax sparingly and make sure to wipe off any excess
• Never apply oil or wax to any rubber and plastic parts, but treat them with a suitable care product.
• Avoid using abrasive polishing compounds as they will wear away the paint.

NOTE: Consult a Yamaha dealer for advice on what products to use.

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